But a potential stumbling block in the deal is the Spanish club's inability to meet the £20m fee being demanded by Chelsea, with Diego Simeone's side only willing to pay around £13m for Torres' services.

The player's £8m-per-year wages are also set to cause an issue, with the Spaniard reluctant to accept a reduction in his paypacket.

Chelsea and Atleti have already done several pieces of business this summer, with striker Costa being joined by Filipe Luis in moving from Spain to London.

Thibaut Courtois has also returned to his parent club after a three year loan spell at the Vicente Calderon.